Cast
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Brett Cullen
as Michael Sanford
Tamlyn Tomita
as Diane Sanford
Xander Berkeley
as Danny “Figaretto” Evans
Tom Bower
as Det. Jake Pestone
Brion James
as Dr. Vincent Garret
Frank McRae
as Det. Bernie Morris
John Philbin
as Pete Lawrence
Wes Studi
as Cameron
M. Emmet Walsh
as Sheriff Foley
Carlos Bernard
as Chajen
Edith Varon
as Martha Resigy
Jack Wallace
as Dick Resigy
Michael Halpin
as Stuart Weissman
Holley Chant
as Katie
James Noah
as Robert Sanford
Crew
Director
- Evan Crooke
Writer
- Mark Mullin
Producer
- Shelly Strong
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Killing Jar examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Evan Crooke brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1997, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Killing Jar took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 101 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 161 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The film contains approximately 1870 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Killing Jar shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Bad Day for the Cut, which focuses more on action than character development, The Killing Jar subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like On the Waterfront and Diamonds Are Forever explore similar territory, The Killing Jar stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 27, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 41m
